A useful method for interpreting microbiological results is to compare the kinds and levels of organisms detected in different environments. Usual comparisons include indoors versus outdoors, or complaint areas versus non‐complaint areas. Specifically, in buildings without mold problems, the qualitative diversity (types) of airborne fungi indoors and outdoors should be similar. Conversely, the dominating presence […]

Molds are part of the natural environment. Molds are fungi that can be found anywhere – inside or outside – throughout the year. About 1,000 species of mold can be found in the United States, with more than 100,000 known species worldwide. Outdoors, molds play an important role in nature by breaking down organic matter such […]

With the recent storms, many homes and businesses have endured severe water damage. Here’s a set of photos showing a local business which was unfortunate and had several inches of water damaging not only the carpeting and drywall, but a lot of contents. The pictures show the wet rugs and walls, the moisture meter indicating […]

Molds are microscopic fungi that live on plant and animal matter. Molds can be found almost anywhere when moisture is present. Molds create tiny spores to reproduce, just as plants produce seeds. Mold spores float through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on damp places indoors, they may begin growing. For people sensitive […]

Pictured here is a non-invasive moisture meter used to detect moisture without puncturing holes in surfaces. In this particular case, the insurance company told the customer who had a water loss, that there wasn’t any cause for concern with the walls and that the damage was only on the floors. Upon us checking the wall, […]

Choosing a dehumidifier is not as simple as just which brand or for how much. The appropriate size is a vital key to getting exactly what you need for your space and condition. Here’s a quick list which can help you decide the appropriate sized dehumidifier you may need for your home or business. Slightly […]

Class 3 Class 3 water intrusion is where moisture has wicked up the walls more than 24 inches, water may have come from above and/or wet insulation may be present and there is more water present than any other class. Class 3 water losses include: Strong wins damage the roof and rain enters from above, […]

Like tools, instruments also aid the restorative process in making sure the structure is brought to pre-loss conditions. In this session, we will discuss some of the instruments used in restorative drying. Moisture SensorA Moisture Sensor is the most basic of moisture detection instruments. It is designed to detect high levels of moisture in the […]

Continuing with the step by step process of remediation, the photo here shows the damp wiping process. After containment and HEPA vacuuming, the basement is sprayed and then damp wiped. Damp wiping removes all of the particulate from the surface, and then an abrasive method will follow.

AlternariaA large spore mold that can deposit in the nose, mouth and upper respiratory tract causing an allergic response. Indoors, it is often found in carpets, textiles, house dust and potentially damp areas like window frames and showers. It can also be found in plant soil. AspergillusUsually found in warmer climates in areas of water […]